Numerical modeling of embedded solid waveguides using SAFE-PML approach using a commercially available finite element package

Guided waves are attractive for long range inspections from a single generation position. However when the waveguide is embedded in another medium, the energy of the guided waves may leak into the surrounding material, causing significant reduction of the inspection distance. A number of analytical or numerical models were developed to understand the behavior of guided waves in embedded waveguides, among which one of the attractive methods was to combine the Semi-Analytical Finite Element (SAFE) method with Perfectly Matched Layer (PML). This paper presents a development to implement the SAFE-PML model in a commercially available Finite Element package. As no source code is required, the presented method will be attractive to a wide range of researchers in Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE). The model is first demonstrated and validated in two cases with analytical solutions. Discussions have been carried out regarding the procedure to select proper modeling parameters. The potential of the model is also illustrated on an important application of guided waves along embedded pipelines.